The big bats came through in game one of the Mariners and Astros match-up, hardly the tight pitching game that many expected. The Mariners haven’t had success in Houston and pin their hopes on Luis Castillo today. Left hander Valdez starts for the Astros. Valdez had a fine start against the Phillies in his last appearance but was hit hard in his previous two appearances, giving up more than a run an inning. Seattle has faced Valdez twice this season with modest success, scoring 6 runs, 3 in each game, over 11+ innings. Valdez is better on the road with an ERA of more than 1 run higher in Houston. He did not pitch well in the post season last year.
The same was true in Castillo’s last regular season starts; two poor starts followed by a strong outing. Castillo then threw a 7+ inning shutout against the Jays, his first appearance in the post season.
Both these teams had very fine bullpens in the regular season, although the Mariners’ has struggled in the last couple of games. The Mariners have, however, hit better than usual down the stretch. Castillo is Seattle’s best chance to get a win against a very tough Houston side. Look for him to pitch well again in his second career playoff start after a demoralizing Mariners’ loss in game one. Take Castillo to out-duel Valdez today, and the M's to win or stay close. I am taking the Mariners on the run line at +1 1/2.